Our Village
- Sally Swanepoel
- Feb 18, 2024
- 2 min read
Every family has its unique story, ours is a tapestry rich with various threads, some expected and some unexpectedly woven into the fabric of our lives. Our story is one of discovery, love, and the remarkable individuals who, though not initially part of our family, have become its very essence.
It’s a journey that began with Cara's early diagnosis at just four months old with sever Spastic Cerebral Palsy with Dystonia, which led us down a path we never anticipated. Jacques and I, armed with boundless hope and determination, embarked on a mission to provide Cara with every possible therapy and intervention, believing we could find a "cure", naive I know, but that was early, and dark days. This journey, though filled with challenges, opened our hearts to the beauty of human connection and the strength found in community and our village.
The first hero on our path was Melinda Barnard, an exceptional NDT physiotherapist in Alberton, South Africa. Melinda was more than a therapist; she was the North Star who showed us not just the way forward in therapy but how to see potential and hope in every small progress Cara made. Her wisdom and compassion laid the foundation for our journey, teaching us the power of setting milestones and celebrating each achievement, no matter how small.
As Cara’s therapy journey unfolded, we met incredible therapists in Occupational Therapy, Hippo (horse riding) Therapy, and Hydro (water) therapy. Each person brought a unique gift into our lives, not just in their professional expertise, but in the joy and progress they had with Cara. Watching her grow and flourish under their care was a source of immense happiness.
The realization that Cara needed more support led us to welcome Drizel Wilma Lourens, or Zellie as she is more affectionately known into our home and hearts. Zellie, in particular, has become so much more than a caregiver. From a young wisp of a girl at 19 to a beloved member of our family, we would never be able to convey our gratitude toward her fully. Her decision to join us on our journey to the United Arab Emirates speaks volumes of the love and commitment that define her. Her bravery and devotion have been a constant source of strength and inspiration. We love her like a daughter, as sister and a best friend!
In Dubai, our journey continued as we found new friends in organizations and individuals dedicated to supporting families like ours. Muhammed Bedier, Cara’s physiotherapist, has been a quiet hero in our story, providing care and opening doors to opportunities that have been crucial for Cara’s development.
This story is deeply personal and filled with gratitude, a testament to the unexpected bonds that have formed along the way. We want to celebrate the people who have become part of our family, each contributing to Cara’s journey in their unique way. Their support, love, and dedication have taught us the true meaning of family.
As we continue to share our experiences, let our story be a reminder of the beauty in human connection and the unexpected journeys that shape us. To all the remarkable individuals who have become part of our tapestry, thank you for weaving your threads into our lives.
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